Dupret Group

The idea that groups of distributed neurons transiently coordinate their spiking activity to organize information-representing cell assemblies is central to our investigation. Our laboratory uses a transdisciplinary approach that combines multichannel electrophysiological recordings (tetrodes, silicon probes, and neuropixels) during behaviour with cell type-selective, neural input-defined and network pattern-informed (closed-loop) optogenetic manipulations of brain dynamics. The group performs neuronal population-level analyses to: (i) determine how internal representations of the external world are computed, consolidated, and recalled for the purpose of adaptative memory; (ii) establish the mnemonic contribution of oscillatory patterns of network activity (e.g., theta, gamma, sharp wave/ripples); and (iii) identify neuronal motifs and pathways supporting memory-guided behaviour. We perform this work while keeping in mind that not all memories serve adaptive responses. This is notably the case for memories that are related to experience of drugs of abuse, and those memories that underpin maladaptive responses. Accordingly, our work is intended to provide principles of interventions aimed at rebalancing brain network physiopathology of maladaptive memory.